IDF Begins Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon with Enhanced Border Defense Strategy

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have initiated a partial withdrawal from southern Lebanon as of Tuesday, marking a significant shift in military operations in the region. However, the IDF will maintain a robust presence along the border, with three times as many troops as before the war. This strategic move aims to ensure security and minimize potential threats from Hezbollah, while continuing to protect Israeli borders.

As part of the plan, the IDF will establish five outposts in southern Lebanon near the border, each manned by a company of soldiers. These outposts, which range in size from 100-150 troops, will be stationed in key areas, such as Labbouneh, Ramyeh/Jabal Blat, Blida, Wadi Saluki, and Al-Khiyam. These positions will be maintained for an indefinite period, likely extending from two to eight months, depending on evolving security needs.

While the November 27 ceasefire deal did not formally include these outposts, Israel has convinced the U.S. that the Lebanese Army is currently insufficient to prevent Hezbollah from entrenching itself in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese Army, though improving in its efforts to confront Hezbollah, is still not at a level that would allow the IDF to fully withdraw its forces.

The IDF's strategic presence is aimed at preventing Hezbollah from infiltrating the region and smuggling weapons into Lebanese territory. Despite threats from Hezbollah to treat the outposts as a continuation of occupation, the IDF is focused on minimizing friction with the Lebanese population, while also maintaining an aggressive posture to counter any Hezbollah activities.

Military sources have acknowledged the difficulty in completely preventing Hezbollah fighters from returning to the region. However, the IDF has enhanced its intelligence capabilities to better differentiate between civilian villagers and combatants. With the support of American advisers, the IDF is working to strengthen its reporting mechanisms for Hezbollah violations, ensuring a more efficient response.

The IDF's efforts have already led to significant progress in clearing the border area of Hezbollah weaponry. Additionally, the military has focused on rebuilding infrastructure and homes in northern areas, allowing for the potential return of displaced residents by March 2. The IDF is also working with local villagers to ensure they do not feel oppressed by the ongoing military presence, aiming to foster a sense of safety and cooperation.

Following the Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) withdrawal from southern Lebanon, Defense Minister Israel Katz made it clear that the IDF would act forcefully against any Hezbollah violations of the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire agreement. Katz emphasized that the military would continue to enforce the ceasefire "vigorously and without compromise," ensuring full security for northern Israeli communities.

“The IDF will remain firm in its stance against Hezbollah and will act decisively to protect Israeli borders and communities,” Katz stated. He also reaffirmed that only the IDF would guarantee the security of all northern communities against any potential threats.

Later in the day, a spokesperson for the Lebanese presidency responded to Israel’s decision to maintain outposts along the border, declaring that Lebanon would consider any Israeli presence on its territory as "an occupation." This declaration highlights the ongoing tension between Israel and Lebanon, as both countries navigate their complex security challenges.